Stephen Thompson has confirmed he intends to fight one final time under his current contract before the end of the year. The welterweight veteran says he and his team are reviewing the roster to find the right opponent for a spectacular sendoff. Thompson wants his farewell bout to be a memorable, action-packed performance.
Stephen Thompson has announced he will fight one more time before retiring, with the welterweight veteran confirming plans for a farewell bout before the end of 2026.
Thompson, known throughout the sport by his nickname "Wonderboy," said he and his team are currently reviewing the roster to identify the right opponent for his sendoff. The 43-year-old made clear he wants his final appearance to be an action-packed, memorable performance worthy of his long career.
The American kickboxer has built one of the most distinctive resumes in welterweight history. Competing out of Team Upstate Karate in South Carolina, Thompson carries a professional record of 17-9-1 and has long been recognized as one of the most technically gifted strikers the 170-pound division has produced. Standing six feet tall with a 75-inch reach, he averages 4.11 significant strikes landed per minute with a striking accuracy of 46 percent — numbers that reflect both his volume and the precision of his unorthodox, karate-based style. He has never attempted a submission in his professional career, a testament to how completely his game is built around his striking.
Why it matters
- Thompson is one of the most recognizable figures in the welterweight division, and his retirement closes a chapter that includes multiple championship opportunities and Fight of the Night performances.
- The choice of opponent will carry real divisional weight, potentially offering a rising contender or fellow veteran a high-profile platform.
- His pure striking style has consistently produced entertaining bouts, making the farewell matchup an attractive card placement for any event.
No opponent has been named at this stage, with Thompson's team still working through potential options to find the right fit for what he hopes will be a spectacular final night.
